The Irish weather God must have a soft spot for Japan and cherry blossoms, as it was an exceptionally beautiful day on Sunday, 11 April, when Hanami – the Japanese cherry blossom festival – was celebrated in Dublin. Blue sky, sunshine and mild temperatures were the perfect conditions for the outdoor event at Farmleigh House Estate.

The organisers had pulled together a colourful programme which included Taiko performances, Kimono presentations and Origami workshops. There was a separate martial arts stage set up and the DAA had been invited to contribute to the programme of martial arts demonstrations. In two 20 min performances Michael, Mark, Sergio and I showed a variety of techniques in suwari waza, hanmi handachi waza and tachi waza to a very interested audience. In particular the children followed our demonstration with great interest and engagement – cheering for Uke and Tori: "give him a wedgie", "kick him" and "Ouch!"

Michael and Mark also demonstrated some defences against attacks with Tanto, Bokken and Jo. After our demonstration Michael said a few words about our club and briefly explained the main features of Aikido and how it is distinct from other Japanese martial arts.

It has been a very interesting experience to practice Aikido outdoors, and on stage in front of an audience – although we aimed to convey an authentic picture of what Aikido is about and tried to move the same way we would during regular practice. After us a group demonstrating Judo took to the stage, followed by the Iaido Association of Ireland.

During the lunch break we enjoyed some delicious Japanese noodles and watched the various other activities that were taking place as part of the festival. A few other club members came along to our afternoon demonstration after which we all sat together in the evening sun, enjoying a relaxed Sunday evening under the cherry trees.